Troy DUI Defense Attorneys
Pulled Over in Oakland or Macomb Counties? Call Balian Legal.
If you’ve been charged with driving while under the influence of drugs or alcohol, you have two separate legal matters to address: the criminal charge itself and the administrative proceeding that affects your driving record. In both legal proceedings, your best option is to work with an experienced attorney who understands the system and can stand up for your best interests.
At Balian Legal, we understand the significant impact that losing your license can have on your life. That’s why we treat your administrative hearings before Michigan’s Driver Assessment and Appeal Division (DAAD) just as seriously as your criminal case. The outcome of both proceedings can hinder your ability to make a living and fulfill other tasks that are central to your daily life. In the case of a restricted or revoked license, this might mean you can’t reliably get to work or pick up groceries from the store. This is not a sustainable arrangement, so our goal is to minimize the impact of a DUI charge on your ability to drive.
If you have been charged with DUI in Troy, Bloomfield Hills, or any of the surrounding areas in Oakland or Macomb counties, do not wait to seek legal assistance. Contact us online or call (248) 846-1488 to discuss your case during a free in-person or virtual consultation.
What to Do if You Are Pulled Over for Drunk Driving in Michigan
When you know you have been drinking or have consumed a mind-altering substance, even if that substance was prescribed, seeing flashing police lights in your rearview mirror can easily inspire justified anxiety. However, it is important that you keep a level head during these encounters, as there are several steps you can take to protect your rights when pulled over on suspicion of DUI.
When you have been pulled over, remember the following:
- Don’t panic. The officer will carefully analyze your driving, so avoid swerving or erratic driving. Instead, use your turn signal and come to a safe stop as soon as possible.
Turning Challenges Into Triumphs
See What Sets Us Apart
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We are committed to providing professional representation with attention to detail to each client’s case.
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We work to build lasting relationships by maintaining open communication and keeping you informed throughout the process.
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We handle a variety of cases, from business law to criminal defense and commercial litigation, providing tailored strategies to meet your specific needs.
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Our approach emphasizes thorough preparation and strategic planning to help you navigate your legal matter effectively.
Penalties for DUI Convictions in Michigan
DUI charges are aggressively prosecuted, and convictions can result in severe penalties. Even a single, first-time conviction with no extenuating circumstances can lead to jail time, fines, community service, and a loss of reputation.
Michigan categorizes drunk driving offenses in three categories: operating while intoxicated (OWI), which is the most common and generally charged as a misdemeanor; operating while visibly impaired (OWVI); and unlawful bodily alcohol content/level (UBAC/UBAL). Each of these offenses are subject to harsher penalties based on the number of prior convictions and any aggravating factors, such as if the impairment led to injury or death or if there was a minor in the vehicle at the time the officer pulled you over.
A first-offense conviction for OWI, OWVI, or UBAC/UBAL can all result in up to 93 days in jail, fines of $100 to $500, and mandatory community service. For OWI and OWVI convictions, a defendant may also face vehicle immobilization or the installation of an ignition interlock device, at the defendant’s expense, that can severely limit the use of the vehicle. Penalties for second, third, and subsequent convictions increase exponentially, and may be charged as felonies. For example, a conviction for OWI causing serious injury may result in a 5-year prison sentence, fines up to $5,000, and mandatory vehicle immobilization.
Don’t Let One Mistake Steer You Off Course
DUI is a serious charge, but it doesn’t have to derail your life. At Balian Legal, we will analyze your case and help you understand your legal options. We recognize the stress and uncertainty you experience when charged with DUI. We can question the reliability of both standardized field sobriety tests and chemical testing based on the way they were administered, the subjectivity of the arresting officer, and the calibration of the equipment.
No matter the specifics of your situation, we are committed to fighting for your innocence and will work tirelessly on your behalf. Schedule a free initial consultation with our DUI lawyers in Troy to learn more. Call (248) 846-1488 or contact our firm online.
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“His level of personal care and his extensive knowledge of the legal and court system is second to none. I literally owe him my life.”Former Client
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“He is extremely professional, knowledgeable & has always been very honest & forthcoming. He is also personable & looks out for your best interest while delivering favorable results.”Former Client
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“A skilled, compassionate, professional lawyer who works hard to ensure the best outcome for his clients. I can't recommend him highly enough.”Former Client
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“His ethics are of the highest standards. He is personable, courteous, knowledgeable, and honest. He is quick to respond, and gives you all possible outcomes upfront.”Former Client
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“Mike is a very sharp, very thorough, very knowledgeable and very trustworthy attorney and person. He has my total confidence in anything I could ever need him for.”Former Client
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“Mike was always there when I needed him with a keen knowledge of the the law and players within the legal system.”Former Client